Captain Canuck Retires

At 11 a.m. today, legend Vancouver Canucks forward, Trevor Linden, officially announced his retirement from the NHL, exactly 20 years after being drafted 2nd by the Canucks as an 18-year-old. I knew as well as any other Canucks/Linden fan that this day would be coming soon, but the news still managed to send a wave of shock through the province. Like most Vancouver fans, Linden has always been my favourite player, not only on the Canucks, but in the entire league and the thought of all the Vancouver players arriving at training camp in the fall without Linden there doesn't seem quite right.

With Trevor Linden now newly retired, there is a second hole in the Canucks lineup. Two weeks ago tomorrow, rookie Vancouver Canucks defenseman, Luc Bourdon, was killed instantly near his hometown of Shippagan, NB in a head-on collision involving his motorbike and a transport truck. Hockey fans across the country and North America were shocked and saddened by the 21-year-old's sudden death and, with Canucks fans still coming to terms with the fact that they will never get to see Bourdon become a star NHL defenseman, the news of Trevor Linden's retirement was disheartening for many. Linden has been a fan-favourite NHLer, not only for his effort on the ice, but also for his hard work in the community. Since relocating from Medicine Hat, AB to Vancouver, he has whole-heartedly dedicated his life to helping others, from reading to kids at local elementary schools, to visiting the Vancouver Children's Hospital, to raising money for Canucks Place hospice. The Canucks website was ready this morning with articles and features to publish as soon a Linden officially told the media of his decision at a press conference. One feature portrays the 16 (his jersey number) most memorable Linden moments throughout his 16 season with Vancouver, while another tells of his achievements off the ice. Numerous videos, much like the one below, were also uploaded to Canucks.com.


Thanks for all the memories Trevor!